There are many potential underlying reasons for a low level of hemoglobin. Regular checkups and blood tests are the best way to early detect and treat anemia. Given the frequency of anemia in the elderly population and the unspecific clinical presentation, signs of it must be actively monitored. That is why, they are often overseen and attributed to advanced age, both by patients and their doctors. What is particularly tricky is that the signs and symptoms of anemia are not specific, especially in the elderly. Since most of the anemias develop gradually, the body partially adapts to the new low-oxygen conditions, so the symptoms may not be pronounced. This typically presents with symptoms such as pallor, weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, high heart rate with low blood pressure. In that case, the tissues do not have enough oxygen for normal metabolism. Symptoms of anemiaĪ low level of hemoglobin means a low blood capacity for transportation of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Detailed and repeated blood tests must be performed in either of these scenarios. A low red blood cell count with normal hemoglobin and a normal red blood cell count with low hemoglobin is also suspicion of anemia. A low red blood cell count is often present along with low hemoglobin. Hemoglobin and hematocrit (the proportion of red blood cells in the blood) are the crucial parameters for diagnosing anemia, but so is the red blood cell count. The severity of anemia depends on how low the hemoglobin is and the speed at which it is developed. If hemoglobin concentration is below these values, anemia is suspected. The function of this significant protein allows all the tissues to get the necessary oxygen and eliminate carbon dioxide, the by-product of the metabolism.Īccording to WHO, the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood should be over 120g/L for non-pregnant women and over 130g/L for men. In other tissues, it releases oxygen or binds carbon dioxide. In the lungs, it binds oxygen or releases carbon dioxide. It can be found in the red blood cells, and its role is to transport these gases throughout the body. Hemoglobin is a protein with the ability to bind and release oxygen and carbon dioxide. That’s why, we bring you this short overview of anemia development, symptoms, risks, and treatment. Second, anemia and its consequences are not harmless issues. First, it can lead us to discover the disease which underlies the development of anemia. It is a common medical issue – studies state that more than 10% of people over 65 suffer from anemia, and the prevalence goes over 20% in those older than 85.Īlthough frequent, anemia in the elderly is not a condition to be ignored. What can I do to increase my low hematocrit? Increasing the consumption of red meat (liver in particular), fish and shellfish (oysters, clams, shrimp, and scallops), dried fruit (apricots, prunes, and peaches), green leafy vegetables, beans, iron fortified breads and cereals, all rich in iron, may help.Have you noticed a red flag marking low hemoglobin levels in your last laboratory results? You might be having anemia, a low number of red blood cells, or a low hemoglobin concentration in your blood. What prevents coagulation during the hematocrit test?.How much does hematocrit drop after blood donation?.What is the fastest way to cure anemia?.
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